As both fans and pundits alike spout their own theories about Liverpool’s dramatic decline, one of the reasons put forth by many was the decision to sell Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich in the summer.
There is a strong argument to make that the Senegalese winger has been one of, if not the standout player during Jurgen Klopp’s storied time at the helm.
While Mane was far from his best in the first half of last season on the left wing, he showcased his tactical intelligence by thriving as a false nine during the second half of the campaign.
With Darwin Nunez brought in as the club legend’s replacement this summer, it’s safe to say that the big-money recruit has failed to replicate his predecessor’s enviable output and technical proficiency.
Added to that, Mohamed Salah’s underwhelming form since the start of the year has continued into the ongoing campaign, with many going as far as to say that the Egyptian should perhaps have been let go by Liverpool instead of Sadio Mane.
As the popular opinion remains that Jurgen Klopp’s side should have kept the versatile forward this season, Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson most certainly concurs.
“When I saw that Liverpool were selling Mane in the summer, I was actually a little bit shocked. Out of the front three, he wouldn’t have been my choice of who I’d have sold at the moment in time”, he said on the Footballers’ Football Podcast.
The England international continued, “When you play against Liverpool, he’s the one who you think, if he’s on it, he can destroy you singlehandedly. That was probably the missing piece of the jigsaw.”
The fact that opposition players were taken aback by Liverpool’s decision to let Sadio Mane depart is a stinging revelation for the Anfield faithful, who are still gutted by his summer exit.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
